Good sleep is important for maintaining our physical and mental health, yet research has shown that sleep disorders are becoming more common. With increased screen time and busier lifestyles, today many people struggle with insomnia, insufficient sleep, or poor sleep quality.

Common symptoms of insomnia include:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Lying awake tossing and turning
• Waking up earlier than desired
• Not feeling refreshed when waking up
• Problems with memory and concentration
• Difficulty managing emotions.

Sleep problems can be distressing and can impact our day-to-day lives. Although sleeping pills are frequently prescribed for insomnia, their benefits can be short-lived, and they can cause unwanted side-effects. Fortunately, psychological therapy can help.

At PsychSessions we have a longstanding interest in sleep. Our dedicated sleep team consists of clinicians with specific interest, training, and expertise treating common and rare sleep disorders. We also have a close working relationship with the team at The Canberra Sleep Clinic, and can easily collaborate with their specialists to provide the best care for our clients. Our clinicians have training in the following evidence-based therapies to help treat insomnia:

• Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Motivational Interviewing
• Schema Therapy

In addition to treating insomnia, psychological therapy can help with the following sleep conditions:

• Hypersomnia
• Narcolepsy
• Parasomnias (bad dreams, nightmares, night terrors, sleep walking, sleep talking, rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder)
• Circadian rhythm disorders (Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder, Advanced Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder, irregular sleep cycle, non-24hr cycle)
• Managing sleep and shift work
• Restless leg syndrome
• Sleep-related anxiety
• Sleep-related trauma
• Help adhering to treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (including CPAP or TMJ splint)

For more information about the clinicians on our sleep team, check the following links:

PsychSessions acknowledges the traditional owners of the lands upon which our clinicians practice, and pays respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.